Healthy Choices

     
Some people wonder if Champagne is a true wine. The truth is, Champagne and all sparkling wines are considered true wines. France produces Champagne and it is known as the most popular sparkling wine. It comes from a combination of Pinot wines and Chardonnay. Champagne has the aromas of apple and a range of fruity and nutty flavors.
    Champagne and Sparkling wines are classified as extra brut, brut, extra dry, sec and demi-sec. Brut is dry but food friendly. Demi-sec pairs well with desserts or fresh fruits. It is great to have a nice chilled glass or as a cocktail. Champagnes can be mixed with fruit drinks, other wines, liquors and syrups. If your looking for  something to pair with a light and healthy lunch, a crisp Champagne cocktail will match well.

*** Recipe for thought***   Grilled Chicken & Chickpea Salad with Champagne Cocktail

1 pound chicken breast                                 ¼ cup light honey mustard dressing (optional)
¼ cup chickpeas                                           ⅛ tsp Italian seasoning
⅛ cup cubed red beats                                 ⅛ tsp garlic salt
10 ounces bag baby spinach                        1 bottle brut Champagne
1 tbsp sunflower seed kernals                      1 bottle peach juice or puree


    Season chicken breast with garlic salt and Italian seasoning; then cook on grill or pre-heated grill press. Cook through until juices run clear. Then cut chicken into long strips and top on spinach, red beats, chickpeas and sunflower seeds. Drizzle honey mustard dressing over salad or dressing of your choice. It is best to make your cocktail with chilled peach juice and Champagne. Pour about 2 ounces of peach juice into Champagne flute and follow by filling glass slowly with chilled Champagne. There are plenty of cocktail recipes to enjoy whether paired with breakfast or dinner. Discover the great taste of sparkling wines.